Are you looking for an easy and delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings? Look no further! Our Chicken N Spinach Pasta Bake is a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, nutritious spinach, and creamy cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal. Let’s get cooking!
**Chicken N Spinach Pasta Bake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the cooked pasta, spinach, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the cooked chicken pieces and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Once the Chicken N Spinach Pasta Bake is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Chicken N Spinach Pasta Bake with your loved ones for a satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for a personal touch. Happy cooking!
